Mamata cracks whip on illegal fertilizer trade

Under fire from Opposition for failing to stop sale of fertilizers in the black-market and smuggling of manure to other states and Bangladesh,the Mamata Banerjee government has launched a massive crackdown on illegal fertilizer trade across the state.

Under fire from Opposition for failing to stop sale of fertilizers in the black-market and smuggling of manure to other states and Bangladesh,the Mamata Banerjee government has launched a massive crackdown on illegal fertilizer trade across the state.

The Opposition parties,which alleged that soaring prices of fertilizers being one of the many causes that has forced farmers to commit suicide,claimed that the action taken by the government has not produced desired results as fertilizers are still being sold in the black market and manure is being smuggled out to other states.

We want the government to ensure that farmers get full information about available stock of fertilizers.

This is essential to keep a tab on illegal trade of fertilizers. We are demanding public display of available stock of fertilizers. Panchayats should be involved in the process.

Left leaders claimed that more than 30 farmers have so far committed suicide in West Bengal for failing to sale their produce and subsequently failing to repay loans. The cost of farming has gone up alarmingly because of soaring prices of fertilizers and other inputs.

To counter this allegation,the government said revolutionary actions have been taken to ensure farmers get adequate quality fertilizers when required.